Brand New Pit

Crackling ambers rise from the hot, golden fire below. The aroma of burnt skin and scales tantalizes, and tests your patience. 


They have to be properly done before you serve your guests, you remind yourself.





Every now and then, when we have family and friends over, we throw a barbecue party.

I love to b-b-q.

I grew up eating daging or ikan panggang - meat or fish grilled on firewood or charcoal. This is the origin of bbq as far as I'm concerned. I know that in French barbecue means "from beard to tail", referring to the whole animal laid down on the barbie. And I'm sure we've all come across roadhouses and beer joints with pool tables, displaying neon signs that read "bar, beer, and cues".

I have this yen for cooking on open fire and eating outdoor: When my buddies and I go fishing, we cook the fish we catch over fire by the riverside, before bringing some uncooked fish home. Whenever I bring the boys to seaside resorts I make it a point to bring along a portable charcoal stove for grilling meat and fish on the beach.

During the candat sotong (hooking the octopus) season at  Pulau Kapas or Pulau Perhentian  (islands off the East Coast), we grill the squid we catch right there and then on the boat, and savor them under the moonlight, while the cool sea breeze caresses our faces.

I find that modern day electric grill does not give the same effect or taste to food. I still prefer meat that is cooked over charcoal or firewood. Must be the caveman in me.

Not one to spend a lot of money on machines, my bbq set has been pretty basic:

The one I used when Irfan and family came over

These are of course already improvements over my old portable clay stove.

But I was keen on making further improvements - to construct one that is bigger and stronger.

After completing the stone steps I had some sand, cement, and bricks left:

The sand and cement I can use for the base of the fencing, which is still not completed. I have no further use for the bricks. So rather than let them become a mold hill, it would be just the material I need for my brand new barbie. I aim to be the perfect host this durian season.

Here are the steps involved in the construction:

(Note: this is not rocket science. Skill level required is only that of a farmer. If you have a degree in engineering, go build a viaduct or something).

First, lay bricks for base and walls - this
one measures 3ft x 4ft - can hold the largest
leg of whatever

Next do the top, the surface where you  build the fire -
the wire gauze is to strengthen the concrete

Apply concrete mix over the top

Finishing touches

And...Voila!
The middle pillar will be removed - space below
for putting your bags of charcoal, etc.

It is now ready for that leg of lamb.